Discover the Magic of This Year’s Ekka Royal Queensland Show and Stunning Drone Light Show

August 5, 2024

What is the Ekka Royal Queensland Show?

The Ekka Royal Queensland Show is Queensland’s largest and most cherished annual event, drawing an average of 400,000 visitors annually. The Ekka Royal Queensland Show will run for 9 days, from 10th to 18th August 2024 at the Brisbane Showgrounds. This iconic event brings the country and city together to celebrate agriculture, showcasing the best of Queensland.

The Ekka offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, including over 21,000 competition entries from categories such as woodchop and giant vegetables, 10,000 animals ranging from beef cattle to cats and dogs, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food and wine, carnival rides, showbags, family shopping, and educational activities. Since its inception in 1876, the Ekka has been steeped in tradition, creating unique atmospheres and cherished childhood memories passed down through generations.

Ekka Royal Queensland Show History & Memories

The Ekka Royal Queensland Show has a rich history, with the first-ever Royal Queensland Show held at Bowen Park in January 1876. Initially named the Intercolonial Exhibition, it attracted 15,000-17,000 visitors, a significant number considering Brisbane’s population of 20,600 at that time. Since then, the Ekka has introduced many traditions and significant events such as the first ride in Sideshow Alley in 1877, electric lighting in 1879, the first fireworks display in 1894, and the establishment of the first district exhibits contest in 1891.

Significant interruptions occurred during the influenza epidemic in 1919 and World War II. However, the Ekka has continually evolved, introducing new technologies, entertainment, and competitions that showcase Queensland’s spirit and innovation.

In 2013, the Royal Queensland Show earned international acclaim by taking home the prestigious Best in Show title, alongside 13 other awards, at the International Association of Fairs & Expositions Awards (IAFE Awards). This recognition underscores the Ekka Royal Queensland Show’s commitment to excellence and its standout status in the world of fairs and exhibitions.

Ekka Royal Queensland Show provides first-class educational programs for schools

Highlighting the importance of agriculture, the Ekka Royal Queensland Show serves as Queensland’s largest classroom. The 2024 program features educational activities aligned with the Australian Curriculum, involving 15 competitions ranging from gardening to cheese making and photography to video production. These activities are designed to educate the next generation on the origins of the food we eat and the clothes we wear.

Food & Retail at the Ekka Royal Queensland Show

Visitors can look forward to a variety of food and retail experiences. Here are six featured retailers at Ekka 2024:

Black Hide by Gambaro – Renowned for its top-quality steaks and dining experience.
Amigo’s Mexican – Amigo’s Mexican! Enjoy some Ekka-Mex on the Gourmet Plaza. You won’t want to miss their tasty tacos, nachos burrito bowls and more!
Bar Gusto – Think Italian, burgers, cocktails and drinks. The team at Bar Gusto have curated the ‘Taste of Gusto’ menu so Ekka enthusiasts get a sneak preview of what will feature on the menu.
Ekka Strawberry Sundaes – Serve up some iconic Strawberry Sundaes for life-saving medical research!
BBQ Smokehouse – BBQ plus smokey-tasting goodness – a match made in heaven that you can eat up at BBQ Smokehouse, where you can enjoy slow-cooked meats and fries.
The Ekka Taste of Queensland Pavilion – Showcasing Queensland’s finest produce.
Boom Burger – Get excited for the Donut Burger (meat patty, bacon and cheese between two Krispy Kremes) and Burger Cone – a waffle cone topped with bacon, meat patty and melted cheese.

For more food and retail options, visit the Ekka Food & Retail page.

Competitions at Ekka Royal Queensland Show

The Ekka is famous for its diverse range of competitions. Here are six featured competitions:

Beef Cattle Competitions – Showcasing Queensland’s best cattle, judged on various criteria.
Dairy Cattle Competitions – Highlighting top dairy breeds and their superior milk-producing capabilities.
Woodchop Competitions – Competitors from around the world participate in this traditional and thrilling sport.
Giant Vegetables – An impressive display of oversized and meticulously grown vegetables.
Equestrian Events – Featuring talented riders and their horses competing in show jumping and dressage.
Photography Competitions – Celebrating creativity and skill in capturing stunning images.

Explore more competitions on the Ekka Competitions and Display page.

Ekka Royal Queensland Show Entertainment Program

This year’s Ekka Royal Queensland Show entertainment program is filled with exciting events and the first Drone Light Show from Drone Sky Shows.

The Grand Parade – A showcase of the best animals and agricultural achievements.
EkkaNITES Show – A thrilling night program featuring live performances, stunts, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Animal Nursery – An interactive experience for children to meet and learn about farm animals.
Live Music Performances – Enjoy live music from talented local and national artists throughout the event.
Fashion Parades – Showcasing the latest fashion trends from local designers.
Cooking Demonstrations – Learn new recipes and cooking techniques from top chefs.

For the full line-up, visit the Ekka Entertainment Program page.

Ekka Royal Queensland Show Best Showbags

Everyone loves a good showbag! Here are six popular showbags available at Ekka 2024:

Cadbury Showbag – Packed with delicious chocolates and sweets.
Bertie Beetle Showbag – A classic favourite filled with Bertie Beetle chocolates.
Paw Patrol Showbag – Perfect for kids, featuring Paw Patrol-themed toys and goodies.
Marvel Avengers Showbag – Filled with official Marvel merchandise, ideal for superhero fans.
Frozen Showbag – Delightful Frozen-themed items for young fans of the franchise.
Harry Potter Showbag – A magical bag containing Harry Potter-themed merchandise.

Check out more options on the Ekka Showbags page.

The Ekka Royal Queensland Show is packed with amazing Rides

The Ekka offers thrilling rides for all ages, here are just a few:

Crown Ferris Wheel – Australia’s newest Ferris Wheel will certainly shine bright in B105 Sideshow Alley. It features half a million dollars worth of lights, including on both sides of the Ferris Wheel, in and under the gondolas and on both sides of the towers.
Alien Abduction – Alien Abduction guarantees excitement with an exhilarating, action experience that is out of this world!
Euro Slide – It’s the biggest slide in the southern hemisphere! Ekka goers will have a smile on their faces as gravity pulls them down the eight-lane, 48-metre bumpy slide.
Crazy Cars Dodgems – It’s time to hit the pedal to the metal and drift! These new cars are the Ferraris of dodgems, and riders will get a thrill out of drifting them around the corners.
Crazy Coaster – The only spinning roller coaster in Australia – riders will start on an adventure of turns and steep drops.
Freak Out – Don’t Freak Out, but this is one epic ride! Strap yourself in as you go high in the sky as it swings around high in the air.

Discover all the rides on the Ekka Rides page.

Drone Light Show at Ekka: The EkkaNITE Sky by Drone Sky Shows

Get ready for an awe-inspiring spectacle at this year’s Ekka Royal Queensland Show, with the introduction of the EkkaNITE Sky presented by Drone Sky Shows. For one night only, on People’s Day (Wednesday, 14th August), history will be made with a brand-new drone show that promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Unforgettable Drone Entertainment from Australia’s Leading Drone Light Show Company

For the first time in Ekka’s rich history, 200 drones will take to the air, set against the backdrop of the Brisbane skyline, the drone show is designed to captivate audiences of all ages, highlighting the unique convergence of country charm and city excitement that defines Ekka. Each drone, equipped with vibrant LED lights, will form intricate patterns and dynamic animations in the sky, telling a story that resonates with the heart of Queensland.

Key Highlights

Date: People’s Day, Wednesday, 14th August 2024
Time: The drone show will commence at 5:50 pm
Location: Brisbane Showgrounds, Main Arena
Drones: 200 synchronised drones creating stunning aerial displays

Why You Shouldn’t Miss the EkkaNITE Sky Drone Light Show

The EkkaNITE Sky drone show is not just a visual feast; it’s a celebration of the innovation and tradition that make Ekka special. This spectacular display offers a perfect blend of entertainment and technology, showcasing the creativity and expertise of Drone Sky Shows. Whether you’re a long-time Ekka attendee or a first-time visitor, this drone show is sure to be a highlight of your experience.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Night

Mark your calendars for People’s Day and make your way to the Brisbane Showgrounds to witness the EkkaNITE Sky. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss, as we celebrate the beloved Ekka where the country spirit meets the city heart.

For more information about the show and to get your tickets, visit the Ekka Tickets page. Join us for a night of wonder and be part of this historic moment at the Ekka Royal Queensland Show!

Getting to Ekka Royal Queensland Show

Accessing the Ekka is convenient with several transport options:

By Train: Special Ekka services will run to and from Exhibition Station. Detailed updates on the Exhibition station can be found closer to the event.
By Bus: Free dedicated shuttle buses will run between Woolloongabba and Herston busway stations every seven-and-a-half minutes from 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM each day of the Show.
By Car: There are various parking options within walking distance to the Brisbane Showgrounds, including King Street Car Park, Cornerstone Parking – Royal Brisbane Hospital, Secure Parking – Valley Metro Car Park, and Secure Parking – McWhirters Car Park.
By Taxi/Rideshare: A dedicated Rideshare & Taxi zone is located outside Gate 1, at the corner of Gregory Terrace and Costin Street.
By Bike: Secure bike racks are available on Carriage Street.

For comprehensive travel details, visit the Getting to Ekka page.

Facilities & Accessibility at Ekka Royal Queensland Show

The Ekka Royal Queensland Show offers numerous amenities to ensure a comfortable visit:

Quieter Days and Areas: Traditionally quieter days are the Super Saver days (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday). Quieter locations include Stockmen’s Rest, John Reid Pavilion, The Courier-Mail Showbag Pavilion, Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion, and Parent’s Room.
Keep Your Kids Safe Program: Collect a free wristband from the Ekka Police Station marquee on Gregory Terrace to help quickly reunite lost children with their parents.
Companion Cards: Free entry for companions assisting a person with a disability.
Accessible Toilets: Located on both upper and lower levels of the convention centre.

For more information, check the Facilities & Accessibility page.

Ekka Royal Queensland Show Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common queries for the Ekka Royal Queensland Show:

Where can I buy an Ekka Royal Queensland Show 2024 Ticket? Tickets are available online via the Ekka website.
Can I change my day after purchasing? Yes, ticket purchasers can do a self-day change via the link provided in the ticket confirmation email. Note that changes can only be done once.
Can I bring food to the Ekka Royal Queensland Show? Yes, you’re welcome to bring a picnic lunch.
Can I bring alcohol to the Ekka Royal Queensland Show? No, but there are licensed venues where you can drink.
What should I do if I lose my child? Don’t panic, there is a Lost Persons station at Gregory Terrace Police Station open between 9:00 AM and 8:30 PM.
What do I do if I lose my belongings? Lost and Found is located at Customer Relations on the lower level of the Royal International Convention Centre.

For more FAQs, visit the Ekka FAQ page.